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PlantbeginnerFreshwater

Bacopa Caroliniana

Bacopa caroliniana

PlantaeTracheophytaMagnoliopsidaPlantaginaceae

📍 South America

Ask Finn

Bacopa caroliniana is a robust, easy-going stem plant with rounded, fleshy leaves arranged in whorls along upright stems. Under high light the leaves develop a golden to pale-pink tinge; under low light they remain mid-green. It has a distinctive lemon scent when leaves are crushed. A reliable background or mid-background plant for community tanks and an excellent beginner stem plant that tolerates a wide range of conditions.

Common Diseases

Nutrient Deficiency (Iron/Macronutrient)

Symptoms

Yellowing or pale leaves, stunted growth, loss of coloration in new growth

Treatment

Increase fertilizer dosing with all-in-one or targeted supplements; ensure adequate light and CO₂ for nutrient uptake

Algae Overgrowth on Leaves

Symptoms

Green or brown algae coating leaf surfaces, reduced photosynthesis, plant vigor decline

Treatment

Reduce light duration to 8-10 hours daily, increase water changes, add algae-eating fish or shrimp, improve water flow

Stem Rot (Poor Water Quality)

Symptoms

Mushy or blackened stems, leaf loss, foul odor from substrate

Treatment

Perform 30-50% water change, improve substrate aeration, reduce organic waste, trim affected stems and replant healthy portions

Slow Growth (Low Light/Nutrients)

Symptoms

Minimal new leaf production, weak stems, pale coloration

Treatment

Increase light to 30-150 PAR, add comprehensive fertilizer, ensure stable water parameters and adequate CO₂

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Quick Facts

co2
Not required
light
Low to high (30–150 PAR)
placement
Background or midground
substrate
Standard or enriched substrate
growth rate
Moderate
propagation
Cuttings root readily

Water it likes

ph
6.0–8.0
nitrate
<30 ppm
hardness
3–20 dGH
temperature
64–82°F (18–28°C)

Stats

Community tips0
Growing in0 tanks